Stream of Dreams Murals Society

The Stream of Dreams Murals Society (SDMS) is a Canadian registered non-profit charity established in 2003, dedicated to environmental education through community art. Operating primarily in British Columbia, the society focuses on educating people—especially children—about watersheds, water conservation, and aquatic ecosystems with the goal of inspiring behavioral change to protect these vital resources.

Mission and Vision

The society’s mission is to change environmental behavior through education and the creation of public art. Its slogan, "All Drains Lead to Fish and wildlife habitat," reflects its emphasis on connecting communities with their local water systems. The society envisions that every family understands their local watershed, the origins and destinations of their water, and ways to prevent water pollution.

Programs and Activities

The hallmark of the society's work is its award-winning Stream of Dreams Fish on Fences program. This trademarked and copyrighted program combines eco-education with community art, engaging entire schools and communities to learn about local watersheds, rivers, and the ocean through interactive, artistic mural projects. The program has been delivered primarily in elementary schools throughout Greater Vancouver, Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and has expanded with trained teams to other regions in British Columbia, as well as to Calgary (Alberta), the Northwest Territories, and parts of Ontario.

In addition to classroom education, the society organizes community mural projects and collaborates with environmental groups such as Wildcoast Ecological Society to incorporate hands-on environmental restoration initiatives. It also offers Indigenous programming, providing free camps for children identifying as Métis or other Canadian Indigenous Nations. These camps include culturally significant activities led by local Knowledge Keepers, fostering cultural awareness alongside environmental stewardship.

Governance and Engagement

The society is governed by a volunteer board of directors, which meets several times a year to guide policy and oversee program delivery. Annual General Meetings are open to the public, inviting community participation and transparency. Volunteers play an essential role in various capacities, including fundraising, mural installation, program preparation, public outreach, and board membership.

Impact and Recognition

The Stream of Dreams Murals Society is recognized nationally for its innovative approach to environmental education by leveraging the power of art to raise awareness and inspire positive environmental action. Its programs have helped empower youth and communities to understand their connection to freshwater ecosystems and foster stewardship behaviors that contribute to water conservation and habitat protection.

Registration and Legal Status

The Stream of Dreams Murals Society is registered as a Canadian charitable organization under the business registration number 879473809RR0001. Donations to the society are tax-deductible in Canada, supporting its mission to educate and engage communities in water conservation efforts.

This blend of environmental science, education, community art, and cultural programming positions the Stream of Dreams Murals Society as a unique and impactful organization dedicated to protecting Canada's water resources through informed and inspired citizenry.